Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A computer-implemented method for generating electronically signed documents, the method comprising: causing a captive portal to appear on a client device when the client device joins a first network; causing the captive portal to display a first web page; obtaining a first electronic signature from the client device based on a first user interaction with the first web page; generating a first audit trail that includes first identifying information derived from the client device; and generating a first electronically signed document based on the first electronic signature and the first audit trail.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for generating electronically signed documents in a network environment. The method addresses the challenge of securely obtaining electronic signatures and maintaining an audit trail when devices connect to a network, particularly in scenarios where user authentication and document signing are required upon network access. The method involves causing a captive portal to appear on a client device when it joins a network. A captive portal is a web page that intercepts network traffic to require user interaction before granting full access. The portal displays a first web page, which prompts the user to provide an electronic signature. The system obtains this signature based on user interaction with the web page. Additionally, the method generates an audit trail that includes identifying information derived from the client device, such as device metadata or user-provided details. Using the electronic signature and the audit trail, the system then generates an electronically signed document, ensuring a verifiable record of the transaction. This approach ensures that electronic signatures are collected in a controlled manner upon network access, with associated audit trails to enhance security and compliance. The method is particularly useful in environments where network access requires user authentication and documentation, such as public Wi-Fi networks, enterprise networks, or regulatory compliance scenarios.
2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein causing the captive portal to appear on the client device comprises: redirecting a first request received from the client device; and issuing a status code to the client device in conjunction with redirecting the first request.
This invention relates to network authentication systems, specifically methods for presenting a captive portal to a client device seeking network access. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless and secure authentication when a client device attempts to connect to a network, particularly in environments like public Wi-Fi where user verification is required before granting access. The method involves intercepting a first request from the client device attempting to access the network. The system then redirects this request to a captive portal, which is a web page used for authentication. Concurrently, a status code is issued to the client device, indicating the redirection and prompting the device to display the captive portal. This ensures the user is presented with the authentication interface before network access is permitted, enhancing security and user experience. The captive portal may include login forms, terms of service agreements, or other authentication mechanisms. The redirection and status code issuance are synchronized to prevent disruptions in the user's browsing experience. This approach is particularly useful in managed networks where controlled access is necessary, such as corporate or public Wi-Fi hotspots. The method ensures that unauthorized devices cannot bypass authentication, while legitimate users are guided through a straightforward verification process.
3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein causing the captive portal to display the first web page comprises rendering the first web page based on a first electronic form, wherein each of the first web page and the first electronic form includes a first field for gathering user data.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for managing user authentication through a captive portal, specifically focusing on the display and rendering of web pages for data collection. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently capturing user data in a secure and user-friendly manner within a captive portal environment, such as those used in public Wi-Fi networks or enterprise access systems. The method involves rendering a first web page based on a first electronic form, where both the web page and the form include a first field designed to gather user data. This ensures consistency between the form's structure and the displayed web page, streamlining the data collection process. The electronic form serves as a template, defining the layout, fields, and validation rules for the web page, which is then dynamically rendered to present a cohesive interface to the user. This approach enhances usability by reducing errors and improving the accuracy of collected data. The method may also include additional steps, such as validating the user data entered into the first field before proceeding to further authentication steps. The use of an electronic form as the basis for rendering the web page allows for easy updates and modifications to the data collection process without requiring changes to the underlying portal infrastructure. This flexibility is particularly useful in environments where user requirements or regulatory compliance standards may change over time. The overall system ensures a secure and efficient way to authenticate users while gathering necessary information through a standardized interface.
4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein obtaining the first electronic signature from the client device comprises causing the client device to register a sequence of touch events corresponding to one or more gestures performed by the first user with a touch screen associated with the client device.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for capturing and processing electronic signatures, specifically focusing on touch-based signature input. The method addresses the challenge of securely and accurately obtaining a user's signature in digital environments, particularly where touchscreen devices are used. The invention involves capturing a sequence of touch events generated by a user's gestures on a touchscreen, which are then processed to form an electronic signature. The touch events may include various gestures such as swipes, taps, or other movements, which are recorded to replicate the user's handwritten signature in a digital format. The method ensures that the signature is captured in real-time, allowing for dynamic and precise input. Additionally, the system may validate the signature by analyzing the touch event data to confirm authenticity, such as verifying the sequence, speed, and pressure of the gestures. This approach enhances security by reducing the risk of forgery and ensuring that the signature accurately represents the user's intent. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring secure authentication, such as financial transactions, legal documents, or access control systems. By leveraging touchscreen technology, the invention provides a user-friendly and efficient way to obtain electronic signatures while maintaining high levels of accuracy and security.
5. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising obtaining the first identifying data from the client device.
A computer-implemented method for managing data access involves securely obtaining identifying information from a client device to authenticate and authorize users or devices. The method addresses the challenge of ensuring secure and efficient data access in distributed systems, particularly where multiple devices or users interact with shared resources. The system captures identifying data, such as device identifiers, user credentials, or network attributes, to verify the legitimacy of access requests. This data is then processed to determine appropriate permissions, ensuring that only authorized entities can retrieve or modify sensitive information. The method may also involve encrypting the identifying data during transmission to prevent interception or tampering. By integrating this authentication step, the system enhances security while maintaining usability, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches. The approach is particularly useful in cloud computing, IoT networks, or enterprise environments where secure data handling is critical. The method ensures that only verified devices or users can interact with protected resources, improving overall system integrity and compliance with security standards.
6. The computer-implemented method of claim 5 , wherein obtaining the first identifying data from the client device comprises determining at least one of a media access control address of the client device, a name associated with the client device, a name associated with the first user, global positioning system coordinates associated with the client device, and biometric data associated with the first user.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for identifying a client device and its associated user within a networked system. The method addresses the challenge of accurately and securely identifying devices and users in digital environments, which is critical for authentication, access control, and personalized services. The method involves obtaining first identifying data from the client device, which may include one or more of the following: the device's media access control (MAC) address, the device's name, the user's name, global positioning system (GPS) coordinates associated with the device, or biometric data linked to the user. These identifiers are used to verify the device and user, ensuring secure and reliable interactions within the system. The method may also involve obtaining second identifying data from a second user or device, which could include similar identifiers, to further enhance identification accuracy. The combination of these data points allows for robust authentication and personalized services while mitigating risks of unauthorized access or identity fraud. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring high-security authentication, such as financial transactions, healthcare systems, or enterprise networks.
7. The computer-implemented method of claim 6 , wherein generating the first audit trail comprises: generating a first audit trail entry that includes the first identifying data and a first timestamp indicating when the client device joined the first network; and generating a second audit trail entry that includes the first identifying data and a second timestamp indicating when the first electronic signature was obtained.
This invention relates to network security and audit trail generation for client devices joining a network. The problem addressed is the need to accurately track and verify the timing and identity of devices when they join a network and obtain electronic signatures, ensuring accountability and security in network access. The method involves generating an audit trail for a client device that joins a network. When the device joins, identifying data about the device is recorded along with a timestamp indicating the exact time of joining. Later, when the device obtains an electronic signature, another audit trail entry is created, again including the device's identifying data and a timestamp for when the signature was obtained. This creates a verifiable record of the device's network access and authentication process, allowing for security audits and compliance tracking. The audit trail entries are linked by the device's identifying data, ensuring that the same device's actions are properly tracked over time. This helps prevent unauthorized access and ensures that network security policies are followed. The timestamps provide a precise chronological record, which is critical for forensic analysis and regulatory compliance. The method can be applied in various network environments where secure access and auditability are required, such as enterprise networks, financial systems, or government applications.
8. The computer-implemented method of claim 7 , wherein generating the first electronically signed document comprises combining a first electronic form with the first electronic signature and the first audit trail.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for generating and managing electronically signed documents, particularly in systems requiring secure and verifiable document processing. The method addresses the challenge of ensuring the integrity and authenticity of electronic documents by combining electronic forms with digital signatures and audit trails to create tamper-evident records. The method involves generating a first electronically signed document by integrating a first electronic form with a first electronic signature and a first audit trail. The electronic form serves as the base document, while the electronic signature provides authentication and non-repudiation. The audit trail records metadata such as timestamps, user actions, and system events to create a verifiable history of the document's creation and modifications. This combination ensures that any unauthorized changes to the document can be detected, enhancing security and compliance. Additionally, the method may include generating a second electronically signed document by combining a second electronic form with a second electronic signature and a second audit trail, allowing for multiple documents to be processed securely. The system may also validate the electronic signatures and audit trails to confirm their integrity before combining them with the respective electronic forms. This validation step ensures that only legitimate signatures and accurate audit trails are used in the final documents. By integrating electronic forms, signatures, and audit trails, the invention provides a robust solution for secure document management, particularly in applications requiring regulatory compliance or high-security standards.
9. The computer implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: analyzing a first electronic form to identify a first field; generating a first document interface that indicates a first label corresponding to the first field and a first field type corresponding to the first field; and generating the first web page based on the first document interface, wherein the first web page includes the first label and a first input element corresponding to the first field type.
This invention relates to automated generation of web-based document interfaces from electronic forms. The problem addressed is the manual effort required to convert structured electronic forms into interactive web pages, which is time-consuming and prone to errors. The solution involves a computer-implemented method that analyzes an electronic form to extract field information, including labels and field types, and then generates a corresponding web page with interactive input elements. The method begins by analyzing an electronic form to identify fields within the form. For each identified field, the system generates a document interface that includes a label corresponding to the field and a field type indicator. The document interface is then used to create a web page that displays the label and an input element matching the field type. For example, if the electronic form contains a text field labeled "Name," the system generates a web page with a text input box labeled "Name." This automation reduces development time and ensures consistency between the original form and the web-based interface. The method may also involve additional steps such as validating the extracted field information, applying styling or formatting rules, and integrating the generated web page into a larger application. The system can support various field types, including text, numeric, dropdown, checkbox, and date inputs, ensuring flexibility in form-to-web conversion. This approach is particularly useful in enterprise environments where forms are frequently updated, as it allows for rapid deployment of web-based interfaces without manual coding.
10. The computer-implemented method of claim 9 , further comprising: obtaining first data via the first input element based on a second user interaction with the first web page; and updating the first document interface to include the first data.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for dynamically updating a document interface based on user interactions with a web page. The method addresses the problem of maintaining synchronization between a document interface and a web page when user inputs or interactions modify the web page content. The solution involves capturing user interactions with the web page, processing the interaction data, and dynamically updating the document interface to reflect those changes in real time. The method includes obtaining first data via a first input element on a first web page in response to a second user interaction. The first input element is part of a first document interface, which is a user interface for a document editing application. The first document interface is displayed in a first browser window, while the first web page is displayed in a second browser window. The method further includes updating the first document interface to include the first data, ensuring that changes made in the web page are reflected in the document interface without requiring manual synchronization. The method may also involve obtaining second data via a second input element on the first web page based on a first user interaction, where the second input element is part of the first document interface. The second data is then used to update the first web page, maintaining bidirectional synchronization between the document interface and the web page. This ensures that edits made in either interface are reflected in the other, improving workflow efficiency for users working across multiple browser windows.
11. The computer-implemented method of claim 10 , wherein the first document interface further includes first position information corresponding to the first field, and wherein generating the first electronically signed document comprises inserting the first data into the first electronic form based on the first position information.
This invention relates to computer-implemented methods for generating electronically signed documents from electronic forms. The problem addressed is the need to accurately place data within predefined fields of electronic forms to ensure proper document formatting and legal validity. The method involves receiving an electronic form containing one or more fields, each associated with position information that defines where data should be inserted. When generating an electronically signed document, the method inserts data into the appropriate fields based on this position information, ensuring the data is placed correctly within the document structure. This process may involve multiple iterations, where data is inserted into different fields of the same form to create multiple versions of the signed document. The method also includes verifying the integrity of the signed documents to confirm that the data has been inserted accurately and that the document remains legally valid. The use of position information ensures that the generated documents maintain consistent formatting and comply with legal requirements for electronic signatures. This approach is particularly useful in automated document processing systems where precise placement of data is critical.
12. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein causing the captive portal to display the first web page comprises: performing a computer vision analysis of a first electronic form to generate a first document interface, wherein the first document interface indicates a first structural attribute of the first electronic form; generating the first web page based on the first document interface, wherein the first web page is structured according to the first structural attribute; and transmitting the first web page to the client device to service a first request received from the client device.
This invention relates to computer-implemented methods for dynamically generating web pages from electronic forms using computer vision analysis. The problem addressed is the need to accurately and efficiently convert electronic forms into web-based interfaces while preserving their structural attributes, such as layout, fields, and formatting, to ensure proper functionality and user experience. The method involves performing a computer vision analysis on an electronic form to extract its structural attributes, such as field positions, labels, and input types. This analysis generates a document interface that represents the form's structure. Based on this document interface, a web page is dynamically generated, ensuring it mirrors the original form's structure. The generated web page is then transmitted to a client device in response to a request, allowing users to interact with the form via a web browser. The method ensures that the web page accurately reflects the original form's design, including field arrangements and input types, while maintaining compatibility with web-based systems. This approach is particularly useful for integrating legacy electronic forms into modern web applications without manual redesign, improving accessibility and usability. The solution leverages computer vision to automate the conversion process, reducing errors and development time.
13. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to generate electronically signed documents by performing the steps of: causing a captive portal to appear on a client device when the client device joins a first network; causing the captive portal to display a first web page; obtaining a first electronic signature from the client device based on a first user interaction with the first web page; generating a first audit trail that includes first identifying information derived from the client device; and generating a first electronically signed document based on the first electronic signature and the first audit trail.
This invention relates to a system for generating electronically signed documents through a captive portal on a client device. The problem addressed is the need for a secure and verifiable method to obtain electronic signatures and associated audit trails when a device connects to a network, particularly in environments where traditional authentication methods may be impractical or insufficient. The system operates by causing a captive portal to appear on a client device when it joins a network. The captive portal displays a web page that prompts the user to provide an electronic signature. The system captures this signature based on user interaction with the web page. Additionally, the system generates an audit trail that includes identifying information derived from the client device, such as device metadata or network connection details. The electronic signature and audit trail are then used to generate a legally binding or verifiable electronically signed document. This approach ensures that the signature process is tied to the device's network connection, providing a tamper-evident record of the transaction. The audit trail enhances the document's integrity by linking it to the device's identity and the context in which the signature was obtained. The system is particularly useful in scenarios where devices connect to networks in controlled environments, such as corporate networks, public Wi-Fi, or IoT deployments, where traditional signature methods may not be feasible.
14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13 , further comprising the steps of obtaining the first identifying data from the client device, wherein the first identifying data includes at least one of a media access control address of the client device, a name associated with the client device, a name associated with the first user, global positioning system coordinates associated with the client device, and biometric data associated with the first user.
This invention relates to a system for securely identifying and authenticating client devices and users in a networked environment. The problem addressed is the need for robust, multi-factor authentication methods that can verify both the device and the user, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. The solution involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions for performing authentication processes, including obtaining first identifying data from the client device. This data may include a media access control (MAC) address, the device name, the user's name, GPS coordinates of the device, or biometric data associated with the user. These identifiers are used to establish a secure connection and verify the legitimacy of the device and user before granting access to network resources. The system enhances security by cross-referencing multiple data points, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to bypass authentication. This approach is particularly useful in environments where device and user identity must be reliably confirmed, such as enterprise networks, financial systems, or secure communications platforms. The method ensures that only authorized devices and users can access sensitive information, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.
15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 14 , further comprising the steps of: analyzing a first electronic form to identify a first field; generating a first document interface that indicates a first label corresponding to the first field and a first field type corresponding to the first field; generating the first web page based on the first document interface, wherein the first web page includes the first label and a first input element corresponding to the first field type; obtaining first data via the first input element based on a second user interaction with the first web page; and updating the first document interface to include the first data.
This invention relates to systems for dynamically generating and updating web-based document interfaces from electronic forms. The problem addressed is the need for efficient, automated conversion of structured form data into interactive web pages, ensuring accurate data capture and display. The system analyzes an electronic form to identify fields, including their labels and types (e.g., text, dropdown). It then generates a document interface that maps these fields to corresponding web page elements, such as labels and input fields. The system renders a web page from this interface, displaying the labels and input elements for user interaction. When a user enters data via the input elements, the system updates the document interface to reflect the new data. Additionally, the system supports dynamic updates to the document interface based on user interactions, ensuring real-time synchronization between the form data and the web page. This approach streamlines form-to-web conversion, reducing manual coding and improving data consistency. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring adaptive, user-friendly interfaces for data entry and management.
16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15 , wherein the first document interface further includes first position information corresponding to the first field, and wherein generating the first electronically signed document comprises inserting the first data into the first electronic form based on the first position information.
This invention relates to electronic document processing, specifically systems for generating and signing electronic documents with structured data. The problem addressed is the need to accurately place data from a source document into predefined fields of an electronic form while ensuring proper formatting and positional accuracy. The system involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions for generating an electronically signed document. A first document interface is used to extract data from a source document, including first data corresponding to a first field. The first document interface also includes position information that defines where the extracted data should be placed within an electronic form. When generating the electronically signed document, the system inserts the extracted data into the electronic form based on this position information, ensuring the data is placed in the correct location. This process may involve additional steps such as validating the data, formatting it according to the form's requirements, and applying an electronic signature to the completed document. The system may also handle multiple fields and corresponding data, using similar position information for each to maintain accuracy across the entire document. This approach improves efficiency and reduces errors in document generation by automating the placement of data in predefined locations.
17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13 , wherein the step of causing the captive portal to display the first web page comprises: performing a computer vision analysis of a first electronic form to generate a first document interface, wherein the first document interface indicates a first structural attribute of the first electronic form; generating the first web page based on the first document interface, wherein the first web page is structured according to the first structural attribute; and transmitting the first web page to the client device to service a first request received from the client device.
This invention relates to computer vision-based analysis of electronic forms to generate web pages for captive portals. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adapt web interfaces to match the structure of electronic forms, ensuring compatibility and usability when serving requests from client devices. The solution involves analyzing an electronic form using computer vision techniques to extract its structural attributes, such as layout, fields, and input types. These attributes are used to generate a document interface that represents the form's structure. A web page is then created based on this document interface, ensuring it mirrors the form's structure. The generated web page is transmitted to a client device in response to a request, allowing the device to interact with the form seamlessly. This approach automates the adaptation of web interfaces to form structures, improving efficiency and reducing manual configuration. The system ensures that the web page accurately reflects the form's design, enhancing user experience and compatibility across different devices. The invention is particularly useful in environments where dynamic form handling is required, such as captive portals in public Wi-Fi networks or enterprise systems.
18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 13 , wherein the step of causing the captive portal to appear on the client device comprises: receiving a first request that is transmitted by the client device; and redirecting the first request from a first domain to a second domain.
A system and method for managing network access via a captive portal involves redirecting client device requests to display the portal. The invention addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently controlling access to a network, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot, by ensuring users authenticate or accept terms before gaining full connectivity. The system intercepts a client device's initial request to a first domain and redirects it to a second domain, where the captive portal is hosted. This redirection triggers the portal to appear on the device, prompting the user to complete authentication or other required actions before normal network access is granted. The redirection process may involve DNS manipulation, HTTP redirection, or other techniques to ensure seamless user experience while enforcing access policies. The system may also handle subsequent requests differently, allowing legitimate traffic to bypass the portal once authentication is complete. This approach improves security by preventing unauthorized access and enhances usability by automating the portal presentation process. The invention is particularly useful in public Wi-Fi networks, enterprise environments, and other scenarios requiring controlled network access.
19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 18 , wherein the step of causing the captive portal to display the first web page comprises: transmitting a first set of instructions to the client device that causes the client device to transmit a second request to a first web server instead of a second web server, wherein the first webserver performs a secure socket layer handshake with the client device using a first certificate issued by a certificate authority for the second domain to establish an encrypted communication channel with the client device; and transmitting the first web page over the encrypted communication channel.
This invention relates to secure communication in captive portal systems, addressing the challenge of ensuring encrypted connections between client devices and web servers while maintaining control over user access. The system involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause a captive portal to display a first web page to a client device. The process includes transmitting a first set of instructions to the client device, which directs the device to send a second request to a first web server instead of a second web server. The first web server performs a secure socket layer (SSL) handshake with the client device using a first certificate issued by a certificate authority for a second domain, establishing an encrypted communication channel. The first web page is then transmitted over this encrypted channel. This approach ensures secure communication while allowing the captive portal to intercept and manage user requests before they reach the intended destination server. The system may also involve additional steps such as redirecting the client device to a different web server or modifying the client's network configuration to enforce security policies. The invention aims to provide a seamless and secure user experience while maintaining control over network access.
20. A system, comprising: a memory storing a software application; and a processor that, when executing the software application, is configured to perform the steps of: redirecting a first request that is received from a client device from a first domain to a second domain to cause a captive portal to appear on the client device when the client device joins a first network, transmitting a first set of instructions to the client device that causes the client device to transmit a second request to a first web server instead of a second web server, wherein the first webserver performs a secure socket layer handshake with the client device using a first certificate issued by a certificate authority for the second domain to establish an encrypted communication channel with the client device, transmitting a first web page to the client device over the encrypted communication channel to cause the captive portal to display the first web page, obtaining a first electronic signature from the client device based on a first user interaction with the first web page, and generating a first electronically signed document based on the first electronic signature.
This system operates in the domain of network authentication and secure communication, addressing the challenge of securely authenticating client devices on a network while ensuring encrypted communication. The system includes a memory storing a software application and a processor executing the application to perform several steps. When a client device joins a network, the system redirects the device's initial request from a first domain to a second domain, triggering the display of a captive portal on the client device. The system then transmits instructions to the client device, causing it to send a subsequent request to a first web server instead of a second web server. The first web server performs a secure socket layer (SSL) handshake with the client device using a certificate issued by a certificate authority for the second domain, establishing an encrypted communication channel. Over this channel, the system transmits a web page to the client device, which the captive portal displays. The system obtains an electronic signature from the client device based on user interaction with the web page and generates an electronically signed document from this signature. This process ensures secure authentication and document signing within a network environment.
Unknown
October 27, 2020
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